
This Strawberry Angel Cake combines light-as-air angel food cake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for an elegant yet effortless dessert. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, it showcases natural sweetness while remaining refreshingly light.
At our Mother's Day brunch, my dessert-averse grandmother enjoyed a full slice, praising its refreshing quality. The vibrant red strawberries against white layers make it look professionally made.
Essential Ingredients
- Angel food cake: Light, absorbent base (1 store-bought)
- Fresh strawberries: Star ingredient (2 lbs ripe)
- Heavy cream: Cloud-like topping (2 cups)
- Granulated sugar: Macerates berries (3 tbsp)
- Powdered sugar: Stabilizes cream (3 tbsp)

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare berries
- Slice strawberries, toss with sugar, let macerate 30 mins
- Step 2: Whip cream
- Beat cold cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks
- Step 3: Slice cake
- Cut horizontally into 3 even layers with serrated knife
- Step 4: Assemble
- Layer cake, strawberries (with juice), and whipped cream
- Step 5: Decorate
- Arrange remaining berries in spiral pattern on top
Layering Technique
Alternate cake layers with strawberries and cream, allowing juices to soak in. The porous angel food absorbs flavor without becoming soggy. For best results, assemble no more than 2 hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs
- Serve with sparkling wine
- Pair with lemon sorbet
- Offer extra berries on side
At a summer party, I learned whipped cream melts quickly outdoors. Now I add gelatin when serving outside, or keep chilled until the last moment.
What began as a simple dessert has become my signature summer treat. That first bite of airy cake, juicy berries, and pillowy cream tastes like sunshine on a plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes, this cake can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve for best results.
- → Can I use a homemade angel food cake instead of store-bought?
- Absolutely! A homemade angel food cake would work wonderfully in this recipe and add an extra special touch.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
- Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.
- → What other fruits could I use in this recipe?
- This versatile recipe works well with many fruits. Try raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or a mixed berry combination for delicious variations.
- → Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
- Yes, freshly whipped cream can be substituted for the whipped topping. Add 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla to 2 cups of heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.